Pros: Impressive features-for-the-money quotient; handsome styling; upscale feel inside and out; generous passenger space; peppy performance of available turbocharged engine
Cons: Ride quality and composure trail most midsize-sedan competitors; sharply sloped rear window and large roof pillars hurt rear visibility; engines are a bit noisier/coarser sounding than some class rivals
CG Says: After a lengthy list of revisions for 2014, the 2015 Kia Optima gets an acoustic laminated windshield, the latest version of Kia’s UVO eServices system, and minor trim updates. With the Optima, Kia strives to provide high-end features and an engaging driving experience at bargain prices, and it mostly succeeds. The interior is stylish and it is offered with many features more commonly found in luxury cars, including ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Optima’s driving experience is more inspired than most midsize cars, though it does not rank with the best in this class in this regard. Though the up-level Limited Package for SX models is tempting with all the features it carries, a base LX or mid-range EX is the value leader here.
| Class | Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Kia |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | LX: $21,650 EX: $24,100 SX: $25,700 SX Turbo: $27,700 SX Limited: $35,500 |
| Base Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 192 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 274 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31 |
